Every dog has their own language.  They speak to us by the wag of their tail, by nudging us with that wet nose, by the kisses they give us, by jumping on us when we come home from work, by looking at us adoringly.  They may bark, howl, or squeal but they each speak their individual language.  Every day they tell us they love us, need us and want our companionship in a variety of ways. 

I want to tell you the story of the language of Jack.  Jack was a border collie mix that was adopted from a no kill shelter.  Jack had heart worms when he was adopted, and the heart worms were successfully treated.  The period of quiet required during treatment made Jack a silent household member. One night after being crated Jack began barking – he found his voice and was not to be quieted.  

Jack loved to sing, and he had certain songs he really loved – Happy Birthday, Lean on Me, and The National Anthem.  Jack would throw his head back, and let it go.  Jack knew he was part of a happy family and loved to sing with them.  If he heard certain songs, he would nuzzle you so you would be reminded to sing. Jack’s love was joyously expressed in his singing. 

Jack spoke to us and gave us love each day.  As he was nearing the end of his life Jack had his own special way of telling us one more time he loved us, thanked us for our time together, and left his love in our heart forever. 

– Peggy